Colorado Health Care Association honors two Briarwood associates

CHCA named Hollie Hoyle, executive director, its Administrator of the Year, and Shera McDonald as its Health Information Manager of the Year. The awards were presented during the non-profit organization’s annual conference, held this year in Denver. The awards recognize exemplary service.

Hoyle has led Briarwood Health Care Center for more than seven years and has been instrumental in the facility achieving a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services over the past two years.

“Hollie is highly compassionate to the population she serves in a very competitive market,” shared Beth Williams, vice president of parent company Life Care Centers of America’s Rocky Mountain Region.

Hoyle takes time to participate one on one with residents and get to know them individually, in addition to being active with the Resident Council. She educates associates on multiple areas of facility management, from the business office to quality care.

“She inspires and motivates our staff to help improve the quality of life for our residents by setting an example and being the change she wishes to see,” said Misty Dalton-Kennedy, restorative nurse.

“She has always been all about the residents, families and staff here,” said Martina Yarnall-Swarts, admissions director. “Her primary concern is that everyone is healthy, happy and enjoying life to the fullest.”

Hoyle encourages the facility to take part in fundraising for causes, including supporting an associate who had been in a hit-and-run accident. She also helped several older associates with housing when they were evicted from their apartments due to urban renewal and skyrocketing rent prices.

“My primary focus has been and always will be on providing excellence in care for the residents,” said Hoyle. “Though I do not ever expect recognition for doing my job, I felt honored to have received this award. Working at Briarwood is my dream job. There is energy here that is magnetic, created by the enthusiasm and spirit of the people who work here. I love the diversity in this building. Many cultures make up those who live and work here, and we all cherish and enjoy each other's unique experiences and life stories.”

McDonald was recognized for her more than a decade of service to Briarwood Health Care Center and for her willingness to step in and assist with other responsibilities, including scheduling, training and staff appreciation efforts. She even serves as a certified nursing assistant when needed.

“Not only does she strive to make our staff feel competent and loved, but she showers our residents with compassion and kindness every day and makes them feel like the beloved members of our community that they are,” said Rachel Jones, MDS coordinator.

McDonald has also assisted with the facility’s fundraising efforts, including car washes and nacho sales, all while dealing with her own daughter’s medical condition.